Accident Overview
On November 27, 2010, at approximately 1550 central standard time, a Grumman American AA-5B, registration N4541L, operated by the pilot, was substantially damaged when it impacted terrain during a forced landing near Nevada, Texas. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed. The personal flight was conducted under 14 CFR Part 91 without a flight plan. The pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. The cross-country flight originated at Bonham, Texas (F00) and was en route to Rockwall, Texas (F46).
Pilot Actions
The pilot reported to FAA inspectors that the engine lost power while in cruise flight. During the forced landing, he cleared power lines, but the airplane stalled and struck the ground. According to the pilot's accident report, cruising at 3,000 feet, the engine sputtered. He switched from the right to left fuel tank and turned on the boost pump. The engine began to regain power then lost RPM again. After clearing power lines, a wind gust raised the right wing, and the airplane impacted an open plowed field.
At 1553, surface winds at Dallas Love Field Airport, about 35 miles southeast, were reported as 190 degrees at 7 knots.
Post-Accident Engine Examination
On December 7, 2010, the engine was examined and functionally tested at Fletchaire, Incorporated, Fleet Support in Fredericksburg, Texas. The carburetor bowl was clean and dry. The fuel filter contained considerable debris resembling paint chips; the pilot said the airplane had recently been painted. After cleaning and reinstalling the filter, the engine operated satisfactorily.
Fuel System Findings
The fuel system between the tanks and electric fuel pump was pressurized and checked for leaks. Two leaks were found: one at a reducer fitting where a 3/8-inch fuel line reduced to a 1/8-inch flare fitting, and a cracked flare fitting on the copper primer line. Fuel stains were noted in that area. Fletchaire, Inc., stated that air may have been sucked into the system, cavitating the fuel line, but noted this may not have caused the accident.